Jos Buttler's Stellar Performance Leads Gujarat Titans to Victory Over Delhi Capitals

Buttler's Unstoppable 97 Secures Win for Titans

Jos Buttler showcased remarkable resilience, overcoming cramps to score an impressive unbeaten 97, steering the Gujarat Titans to a thrilling seven-wicket victory against the Delhi Capitals on Saturday.

After the Gujarat bowlers, led by Prasidh Krishna with figures of 4/41, restricted Delhi to a total of 203/8, the Titans executed their chase flawlessly, reaching 204/3 in just 19.2 overs, with Buttler playing a pivotal role in his 54-ball innings.

Despite early setbacks with the dismissals of captain Shubhman Gill and B Sai Sudharsan (36), who contributed 60 runs for the second wicket alongside Buttler, the Titans maintained their composure.

Buttler partnered with Rutherford (43) to form a solid third-wicket partnership of 119 runs, bringing the Titans closer to their target.

His batting style was both aggressive and controlled, taking full advantage of a pitch that allowed the ball to come onto the bat smoothly. Buttler, known for his extensive shot repertoire, executed his strokes with remarkable calmness.

One notable moment came when he struck Mitchell Starc for five consecutive boundaries in the 15th over, demonstrating his technique as he remained grounded while reaching for the ball.

In contrast, Rutherford's approach was characterized by raw power, evident when he hit pacer Mohit Sharma for back-to-back sixes as the Titans surged ahead.

Although Buttler fell short of a century, Rahul Tewatia sealed the match with a six and a four off Starc, finishing the game with four balls to spare.

This victory propelled the Titans to the top of the standings with 10 points, equal with Delhi but boasting a superior net run rate of 0.98 compared to Delhi's 0.58.

Earlier, the Gujarat bowlers, spearheaded by Prasidh, executed a disciplined strategy to stifle the Delhi batting lineup.

The innings began with Abhishek Porel (23) making a strong start, hitting Mohammed Siraj for 16 runs in the opening over, including two fours and a six, before falling to Arshad Khan in the next over.

KL Rahul (28 off 14 balls) and Karun Nair (31 off 18 balls) added 35 runs for the second wicket, showcasing some exquisite shots.

However, Prasidh dismissed Rahul with a well-placed yorker, breaking the promising partnership.

Karun attempted a ramp shot off Prasidh but was caught by Arshad at wide third man, leaving Delhi at 93 for three after just nine overs.

Delhi managed to form another solid partnership of 53 runs between Tristan Stubbs (31) and Axar Patel (39) for the fifth wicket.

Stubbs displayed his elegance with cover drives off Prasidh, but just as he was gaining momentum, he attempted a reverse paddle off Siraj and was caught by Prasidh.

Prasidh returned to dismiss Axar, maintaining pressure with his bouncers and variations, keeping the batters on their toes.

Ashutosh Sharma (37 off 19 balls) provided some late fireworks as Delhi crossed the 200-run mark.